Dallas Cowboys: Edge Donovan Ezeiruaku
Rookie pass-rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku has already made an impact for the Dallas Cowboys. He has two sacks and 10 quarterback pressures.
The Boston College product has had both sacks, three QB hits and three tackles for loss over his last three games, and his production could continue rising over the second half of the season. Dallas added Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline, and he should create regular one-on-one opportunities for the guys playing next to him.
New York Giants: TE Theo Johnson
Second-year tight end Theo Johnson has been a regular part of the New York Giants’ offensive plan since last season. However, the team needs him to take on a bigger role with Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo both done for the year.
Johnson, who is coming off a seven-catch, 75-yard performance, has shown he’s capable of being a go-to target. Interim coach Mike Kafka should make him an offensive focal point moving forward.
Philadelphia Eagles: Edge Jaelan Phillips
Jaelan Phillips had a strong early career with the Dolphins before injuries cost him most of the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He faced an uncertain future in a contract year with a struggling defense before Miami traded him to the Philadelphia Eagles.
In his first game as an Eagle, the 26-year-old showed his difference-making potential. After recording six tackles, two quarterback hits, one key tackle for loss and a fumble recovery on Monday night, he is poised to become a star in Philly’s defense.
Washington Commanders: DT Jer’Zhan Newton
Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton showed flashes as a rookie last season, finishing with 44 tackles and two sacks. He’s already up to 22 tackles and two sacks this year, and he could be even more productive over the second half of 2025.
The 23-year-old played a season-high 40 percent of the defensive snaps in Week 10, and now head coach Dan Quinn has decided to take over the defensive play-calling. If Quinn can boost the defense, Newton’s profile will rise considerably.